Joseph Frank DeSalvatore

Born in Brooklyn, NY on July 9, 1928 to Vito and Maria (Schiavone) DeSalvatore. He moved to Oneonta as a young teen, where he graduated from Oneonta High School. Shortly thereafter he enlisted in the United States Army.

Joe is predeceased by both of his parents Vito & Maria DeSalvatore, his brother Nick, his baby sister Helen, his wife Ardyce of 69 years of marriage and his eldest son Gregory (Bonnie) DeSalvatore.

He is survived by his Son, Vincent (Denise) DeSalvatore, his sisters Theresa DeSalvatore, Jean Anne Natoli, Seven Grandchildren: Eric (Chelsea) DeSalvatore, Christina (Eric) Murphy, Ryan (Erin) DeSalvatore, Michelle DeSalvatore (Chris White). Anthony (Kelly) DeSalvatore, Michael DeSalvatore, Emily (Kevin) Appler. He also survived by eight great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews, all very dear to his heart.

Joe is a US Army veteran of World War II stationed in Bad Hersfeld, Germany, where he served as a Staff Sergeant until Honorable Discharge. He was awarded WWII Victory, European Theater of Operation Medal, Army of Occupation Germany, Good Conduct, Fourragere, Presidential Unit Citation, and Expert Rifle & Pistol.

Joe held various jobs following discharge. He found his calling with the Oneonta City Police Department. From 1956 until 1982 he served his community. From Patrolman to Detective Sergeant and finally Chief of Police from 1968, retiring from Chief in 1982. He is also a graduate of the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA in 1972.

When he wasn’t serving he was an avid outdoorsmen. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and riding his motorcycle. He also loved playing his guitar or harmonica and serenading his loved ones with his music. He taught Sunday school. He was a member of the Oneonta Masonic Lodge 466, the American Legion, FBI National Academy Associates, NYS Rifle and Pistol Association and a Lifetime member of the NRA.

For those who knew him closely, you could always find him reloading ammunition, sharpening his knives and telling stories.

A service to celebrate the honorable life of Joseph F. DeSalvatore will be held at Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main Street, Oneonta on Thursday November 18th. Viewing hour is 11:30-12:30 with a celebration of life after and service to immediately follow where he will be laid to rest next to his wife at Oneonta Plains Cemetery.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bookhoutfh.com for the DeSalvatore family.